Floor Heating is a must-have for any renovator or builder looking to add comfort, efficiency and value to their project. This innovative heating solution delivers consistent warmth throughout a room, eliminating cold spots and ensuring a comfortable environment in even the coldest of winters. With no visible heating units or radiators, underfloor heating frees up valuable wall space and enhances the aesthetics of any space.
It’s also energy-efficient, providing cost savings on heating bills and reducing your carbon footprint. With a long lifespan and minimal maintenance required, floor heating is a smart investment that will benefit your clients for years to come.
What is floor heating?
Floor heating is a heating system that is installed under the floor of a building to provide warmth and comfort. It involves installing heating elements or pipes beneath the floor, which then radiate heat upwards into the room.
What are the benefits of floor heating?
Floor heating provides many benefits, including:
- Improved energy efficiency and lower energy bills
- Even, comfortable heat distribution
- No visible heating units or radiators
- Reduced dust circulation and allergens
- Increased floor space as there are no bulky heating units
What type of floor coverings can be used with floor heating?
Most floor coverings can be used with floor heating, including ceramic tiles, stone, marble, hardwood, laminate, and carpet. However, it is important to consult with a professional installer to ensure that the selected floor covering is suitable for use with underfloor heating.
How is floor heating installed?
Several methods are available, depending on the floor construction.
- Bedded floor. A common method for bathrooms and other tiled areas. A cable layout is fastened to the sealed floor and a sand/cement bedding laid over this.
- Thin bed system. Similar to above, but a thin (2mm) cable type is laid free form on site. A thin skim coat of self-leveling mix then provides a flat surface for tiling,
- In-slab. The cable is fastened to the reinforcing mesh of a concrete slab prior to the concrete pour.
- Under carpet mat. An alternative from the above for under carpet, is an alfoil heating mat which is sandwiched between the underlay and carpet.
- Under timber. The cable is laid between battens before flooring is laid.
Is floor heating suitable for both new and existing buildings?
Yes, floor heating can be installed in both new and existing buildings. However, it may be more difficult to install in existing buildings, as the flooring may need to be removed to install the system.
How much does floor heating cost to install, and what are the running costs?
The cost of floor heating will depend on several factors, including the type of system being installed, the size of the area to be heated, and the cost of installation. It is best to consult with a professional installer for an accurate quote.
An average bathroom with 500 Watts of floor heating that is time-clocked to be on for a maximum of 3 hours in the morning and two hours later in the day, will cost less than $4 per week. The running cost for large areas may typically be around $0.60 per sq.m/week. Lower costs are achieved where the building has good thermal insulation and the lower-rate controlled electricity tariff is used.
How long does floor heating take to warm up a room?
When cable is installed in a screed on top of the base floor, warmth is felt within 30 minutes. Of course, it also then cools down, more quickly. If cable is embedded in the base slab, warm-up time is a few hours. Thermal insulation is essential for temperature stability in these installations, and a running cost advantage can be achieved by operating on the lower cost-controlled or off-peak electricity tariff.
How do I maintain my floor heating system?
Floor heating systems require very little maintenance. However, it is recommended to have the system serviced once a year by a professional installer to ensure it is working efficiently.
How long does a floor heating system last?
Floor heating systems are designed to last for many years. The lifespan of the system will depend on several factors, including the quality of installation, the type of system, and the level of maintenance.
KOAST is proud to stock a range of floor heating solutions, available to shop now: